DBS checks and the Update Service (taxi and private hire drivers)

As a private hire or taxi driver you need an enhanced DBS check from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). This is to make sure that you don’t have any criminal convictions that would stop you from being a taxi driver.

You will need to get an enhanced DBS check every 6 months, unless you register for the DBS Update Service.

Register for the DBS Update Service

The DBS update service costs £16 per year. It allows us to check your certificate online to make sure it is up to date, saving you time and money.

You must register for the DBS update service within 30 days of your DBS certificate being issued.

Video guide

What are the benefits of the Update Service?

The Update Service:

  • saves you time – there’s no need to manually renew every 6 months
  • costs less than renewing manually every 6 months, saving over £200 over three years
  • allows authorities to easily check the status of your certificate anytime online
  • keeps records safe and updated, ensuring you are always safe to drive

You need an enhanced DBS certificate to register

If you are in the process of getting a DBS check

You can register using your application reference number. This is the number located at the top right hand side of your application form. If using your application reference number, you must register within 28 days.

If you have a DBS certificate already

You can register for the Update Service using your certificate number. This is the number located at the top right hand side of your certificate. If using your certificate number, you must register within 30 days of it being issued.

If your certificate is older than 30 days, you can register when it’s time to renew it.

If you don’t have a DBS certificate

You can get one by applying for a taxi driver licence online. This costs £57.90. After you submit the form, we will provide you with a link and login details to start your DBS application.

Help with your DBS application

Follow the advice below to avoid delays or rejection:

  • enter your login details exactly as they were provided using upper and lowercase letters
  • set your memorable word – it should be between 9 and 20 characters long using letters and numbers
  • provide your full name and name history – start with your birth name and include all changes due to marriage or other reasons, with correct start and end dates

    • Note: Reading Borough Council use the East Midlands Shared Services platform to process DBS checks.

    Tracking your DBS application

    You can use the DBS tracking service to check the progress of your DBS certificate. You will need your application reference that starts with ‘E08’.

    Keeping your certificate safe

    We recommend keeping your DBS certificate stored or saved in a safe location in case you are ever asked to provide it.


    Register for the DBS Update Service

    You must register for the DBS Update Service within 30 days of receiving your DBS certificate. This service costs £16 per year.

    Register now

    Frequently asked questions

    Step-by-step: Applying for an enhanced DBS check online

    Step-by-step: Completing the DBS Update Service registration form

    What is a DBS check?
    A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is a background check. It makes sure that you don’t have any criminal convictions that would stop you from having certain jobs.
    Why do I need a DBS check every six months?
    The Department for Transport state that local councils must check drivers’ DBS records every 6 months. The new rule aims to make taxi and private hire services safer.
    How much does a DBS check cost?

    Applying for an enhanced DBS check and certificate costs £57.90.

    Once you have a certificate, you must register for the DBS Update Service for £16 per year. It allows us to check your certificate online to make sure it is up to date, saving you time and money.

    What is the DBS Update Service?

    The DBS Update Service allows us to check your certificate online to make sure it is up to date, saving you time and money.

    For more information, visit DBS Update Service on the GOV.UK website.

    Who can I contact for more information?

    For more information, contact the licensing team by email: licensing@reading.gov.uk.

    Alternatively, you can contact DBS customer services:

  • by email: customerservices@dbs.gov.uk
  • by phone: 0300 0200 190

    • Last updated on 04/04/2025